A family medicine doctor in Hilton has been suspended for three months for having an inappropriate relationship with an adult female patient, according to the state Department of Health.

Dr. Mark Sarnov of Hilton Health Care did not contest the charge of negligence on more than one occasion by having the relationship while he was the woman’s physician.

Sarnov’s suspension took effect April 23, according to documents from the Department of Health’s Board for Professional Medical Conduct.

The board suspended Sarnov's license initially for 36 months with the last 33 months stayed with probation for three years and conditions.

When Sarnov returns to practice, he will be required to have a chaperone when he is examining or treating any female patient. The chaperone must meet requirements set by the health department.

During probation, Sarnov can practice only when being monitored by a licensed physician who is board certified in an appropriate specialty.

Sarnov was licensed to practice medicine in New York in 1997, according to state documents.

According to the board, Sarnov treated a 32-year-old woman at various times and for various conditions from Jan. 30, 2012 through Sept. 15, 2017 at the practice, 279 East Ave., Hilton. Between approximately 2014 and Sept. 15, 2017, when he still was her physician, Sarnov had an inappropriate physical relationship with the patient.

Hilton Health Care sent a letter in April to patients stating that the practice became aware a few months ago that Sarnov had the inappropriate personal relationship. The letter stated that with Sarnov’s knowledge and cooperation, the practice reported the matter to the Office for Professional Medical Conduct.

According to the letter, Sarnov “has taken full responsibility for this lapse in judgment and has also sought counseling. Dr. Sarnov is a long serving practitioner with Hilton Health Care and is well-regarded by his patients and colleagues. We look forward to his return to the practice of medicine.”

Other providers at Hilton Health Care will be taking care of Sarnov’s patients during the suspension. the letter said.

As part of the board order, Sarnov agreed to participate with the Committee for Physician Health. The committee is part of the Medical Society of the State of New York and provides non-disciplinary help to doctors, residents, medical students and physician assistants who are dealing with stress and other emotional or substance abuse issues.